NEW BEDFORD — Accordion music rang through the streets of Acushnet Avenue this weekend, accompanied by traditional dancers and satisfied spectators "lembrando" the old country.

"I've been doing this for 60 years," said Zelia Raposo, speaking of the textiles she came from Sao Miguel to sell at the Day of Portugal.

"It's important so people can see and not forget our culture, to see our traditions," she said in Portuguese, translated by her niece. "And also to show all the immigrants that haven't been back for so many years the artwork that they remember as they were children."

Back in the Azores, Raposo worked in a group home for young women, Casa de Trabalho. The textile sales go to finance the home, including those from the New Bedford event.

The multitude of fair vendors occupied the blocks from Beetle Street to Coffin Avenue, Friday, Saturday and today. Organizers were blessed with near-perfect weather.

With rows of cowboy boots and colorful bracelets, Tomas Xirum of Guatemala Musical rented a stand in front of his Avenue shop. He said it gives him exposure beyond just the Central American population.

"For me it's a bit expensive," he said in Spanish, "but at the same time it promotes the shop."

The Day of Portugal is a worldwide event celebrated June 10, according to the festival's organizers. The day commemorates the life of Luis Vaz de Camoes (1524-1580), a man some call the country's greatest poet. The holiday also celebrates the contributions of Portuguese communities around the world.

New Bedford craftsman Luis Bolarinho was manning the booth next to Zelia Raposo, selling an array of handmade wooden goods including wine presses and plaques with the likeness of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speaking Portuguese peppered with English and Spanish, Bolarinho said living in the United States he's become ingrained in his Portuguese culture. It makes him recall a better time.

"More Portuguese," he said.

"I like this work very much because I remember Portugal, way back."

Asked who taught him to make the work he was selling, Bolarinho shook his head.

"No no," he said, reverting to English. "Jesus gave me the good ideas. This is my design."

The Day of Portugal culminates today, open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. A kids road race will take place at 9 in the morning, followed by an adult race at 10.